Lima: Peru’s President Jose Jeri on Tuesday declared a 30-day state of emergency in the capital city, Lima, and the neighbouring province of Callao, in a renewed effort to tackle the surge in violent crime and lawlessness. The move, announced after approval by the Council of Ministers, authorizes the deployment of armed forces alongside the police to maintain order and public safety.
President vows to ‘move from defense to offense’
In a televised address, Jeri said the emergency measure would begin just after midnight, marking a shift in the government’s approach to law enforcement.
“We are moving from defense to offense in the fight against crime, a fight that will allow us to regain peace, tranquility, and the trust of millions of Peruvians,”
— President Jose Jeri
The declaration comes amid mounting public pressure and anger over rising violent crime, particularly in Lima’s urban districts and the busy port area of Callao.
Recent protests and unrest
The announcement followed large-scale protests last week that left one person dead and over 100 injured. Many of the demonstrators were young citizens from Generation Z, civil society groups, and students demanding urgent reforms to improve safety and create economic opportunities.
The demonstrations, which spread across several major cities, were the first major test of Jeri’s presidency since he took office earlier this month.
Jeri’s new administration faces early challenges
Jose Jeri was sworn in earlier in October, following the ouster of former President Dina Boluarte, whose government also faced widespread protests and instability.
After assuming office, Jeri unveiled a new cabinet, pledging to make crime control and institutional reform top priorities. However, his administration has already been met with scepticism from political analysts and the public, who question whether another emergency measure will bring tangible results.
Emergency powers and their limits
The state of emergency suspends certain constitutional rights, such as freedom of assembly and movement, allowing security forces to conduct patrols, raids, and checkpoints without prior judicial authorization.
However, security experts point out that previous emergency declarations under Boluarte’s government in March had minimal impact on curbing crime.
“Deploying the military on the streets may provide short-term visibility but fails to address deeper issues like corruption, weak policing, and lack of judicial reform,” said political analyst Carlos Quiñones, speaking to local media.
Crime surge and public frustration
Peru has seen a sharp increase in violent robberies, kidnappings, and extortion cases, especially in Lima’s outskirts. According to police data, criminal gangs from Colombia and Venezuela have expanded operations in the country’s capital, escalating public fear and insecurity.
Residents have repeatedly complained of slow police response times and lack of accountability in the justice system. Small business owners, delivery workers, and taxi drivers have been among the hardest hit by extortion rackets.
Conclusion
As President Jeri’s administration begins its term, the 30-day emergency represents both a symbolic and practical test of his leadership. While the deployment of armed forces may temporarily restore order, analysts warn that sustainable change will require deeper structural reforms to rebuild public trust, strengthen law enforcement, and tackle corruption within the system.